Cops overpower rape suspect who resisted arrest by trying to kill self

PHOTO ST FILE

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A rape suspect here tried to resist arrest by policemen by hitting his head with a hammer and threatening to do himself more harm unless they let him escape, the police said Thursday.

Chief Insp. Teody Condesa, head of the police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Davao del Sur, said Dominic Regidor, 39, a resident of Times Beach in Barangay 76-A here was being served a warrant on Wednesday  for the 2014 rape of the minor-aged daughter of his former live in partner in nearby Digos City but instead of yielding, the suspect tried to escape.

When finally cornered, Condesa said the suspect hit his head with a hammer and threatened to kill himself unless the arresting officers – backed by a court warrant – let him go.

Condesa said Regidor’s current live-in partner, whom he did not identify, persuaded the suspect to just peacefully give in.

But as the suspect appeared to be serious about killing himself, Condesa said the negotiations dragged.

Regidor was finally overpowered by arresting officers.

“He was so strong that my handcuff bent,” Condesa said.

Regidor was endorsed to the Talomo police station after undergoing medical treatment for the wounds and bruises he sustained during the scuffle.

He was brought back to Digos City on the same day for temporary safekeeping at the Digos police station.

Condesa said the suspect has been charged with several offenses, including rape and child abuse – which are non-bailable.  SFM